Flying 22-yo full-back had “already said goodbye” to teammates before failed United move
In a surprising turn of events, Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, a player previously linked with Manchester United, had reportedly bid farewell to his teammates in anticipation of a move to Old Trafford or Barcelona during the summer.
Persistent rumors connected Frimpong to Manchester United, especially since Erik ten Hag took charge as the manager in 2022.
Concerns about the contributions of Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka led to speculation about Frimpong’s potential role in the team.
According to BILD journalist Axel Hesse (via SportWitness), Frimpong and his representatives were highly optimistic about securing a transfer to a top European club.
Both Barcelona and Manchester United were identified as the clubs displaying the strongest interest in the talented Dutch defender.
Frimpong was reportedly so certain about the move that he had “already said his goodbye” to Bayer Leverkusen.
However, neither the move to Ten Hag’s side nor to Camp Nou materialized, and Frimpong continued to be a part of Xabi Alonso’s squad.
In the current season, Frimpong has delivered an impressive performance, contributing five goals and six assists in 16 appearances across all competitions.
Hesse commented on Frimpong’s situation, stating, “If you had asked me after last season whether Jeremie would still play for Leverkusen, I would have thought it impossible.”
“Major clubs had shown interest, there were contacts with Barcelona and Manchester United at an early stage.
That (failed exit) was a setback for him because I think he had already said goodbye to the club in his mind.
He plays a big role in the team that is not only at the top of the Bundesliga but also plays the best football in Germany.”
“As a wingback, he has become a great weapon. After the market closed, he signed a new contract, which includes a release clause of €40m for next summer.
If he continues to play like this, he will definitely be sold.”
“Spanish football is tailor-made for him. If you ask me, Jeremie is the ideal back for a team like Barcelona.”
